Preparing for a Trip and Sunday Morning Coffee

Preparing for a trip to two very different destinations – New York City and the scenic Bordeaux region of France – requires careful planning.

Whether heading to the bustling streets of Manhattan or embarking on a serene backroads biking trip through French vineyards, here are some essential tips to help you prepare for any adventures. Thanks for joining me for Sunday Morning Coffee.

Season 4 Volume 33

About Me

Last-Minute Tips for Preparing for a Trip

Guess what? We leave in a week for a trip to New York and a Backroads biking adventure in Bordeaux, France! As you can imagine, I have been busy preparing for the trip of our dreams!

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your next vacation.

Finalize Your Itinerary

The more you plan, the better your trip will be. So, I have planned our trip as much as possible.

The first thing you should always do is check the weather forecast for your planned travel dates. And don’t just check it once. Always check it when you are packing to ensure no surprises.

Even if you’ve left planning to the last minute, it’s crucial to outline a basic itinerary. We all know New York is packed with must-see attractions. Whatever your destination might be, prioritize what you want to do based on your interests.

Are you drawn to the arts? I am, so we booked tickets for a Broadway show. You can also reserve a time slot for museums like The Met or MoMA in NYC. If you’re a foodie, make dinner reservations at popular restaurants, especially if they’re in high demand. Don’t forget to check out the latest events and exhibitions that may be happening during your stay.

Everything has been planned for our biking trip through Bordeaux. However, we have a night in Paris and Bordeaux before our bike trip starts and two additional nights in Paris before we depart. I had many hotel nights to secure, train tickets in and out of Paris, and dinner reservations to make in Paris.

Pack Smart and Efficiently

When packing for your trip, think of versatility. Any city’s weather can change rapidly, so pack layers that can easily be added or removed. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, given that you’ll likely spend much time exploring on foot. Don’t forget to bring a small, stylish bag that can hold essentials while being secure in crowded places.

For Bordeaux, packing light but effective was key. For an adventure, ensure you have proper rain gear, and a lightweight jacket for cooler mornings. A small daypack or saddlebag for your bike is essential for carrying snacks, water, and other necessities.

This new convertor I bought for France has every type of charger I need!

I may sometimes use affiliate links on this blog, which means a small commission is earned if you make a purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

Check Travel Documents and Insurance

For travel within the states, ensure your identification and travel documents are current. This includes a valid driver’s license. Confirm your accommodation details and transportation arrangements, such as airport transfers or public transit passes.

Traveling to overseas requires a valid passport, so double-check its expiration date. Also make sure you have a photocopy of your passport too. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially since you’ll be engaging in physical activity. If you don’t have an international driver’s license and plan to drive, apply for one before your departure.

Last-Minute Shopping and Preparations

Do a quick shopping run for last-minute items like toiletries, travel-size products, or snacks for your flight. That said, don’t overpack—leave room in your suitcase for any shopping you might do in the city.

Prepare Your Home and Notify Contacts

Before heading out, take care of your home by setting up timers for lights, securing windows and doors, and notifying a neighbor or friend to check on things while you’re away. Provide your itinerary and contact information to a trusted friend or family member.

Final Thoughts

Whether navigating the vibrant streets of New York City or biking through the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, a little last-minute preparation can go a long way. By taking care of these final details, you’ll ensure a smoother, more enjoyable trip. Safe travels!

My Latest Project

I am so organized for my Christmas crafts!

Remember when I became the proud owner of my DreamBox 2 last year? I cannot believe how much happiness this brings me.

I can see everything, find everything, and enjoy crafting with all of my tools at my fingertips.

Plus it folds up and looks like an armoire!

This past year I have been crafting more efficiently and without the stress that I used to have with an unorganized craft room.

I even added a side table for my Dreambox 2 so I have a place to wrap gifts and sew! It fits perfectly and makes the space even better than before.

And this upholstered chair with casters I found on Amazon is comfortable and looks fantastic!

Of course, now all I need is time to get started on my holiday crafts!

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My Biggest Challenge This Week

With our crazy travels and trips to Ventura, I have been late decorating our home for fall!

I posted New Fall Decorating Ideas for the Living Room and Fall Decor Ideas for the Kitchen which means I have only two areas decorated.

I am curious if you have noticed this year, I am using a lot less decor and keeping things simpler and a bit more neutral.

It’s true! And I am loving it.

I think this might be the new me.

Next week, before we depart for our trip, I will have the dining room and family room ready for fall. And I will be sharing both on my blog next week too.

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• Pack for our trip to NYC and Bordeaux, France.
• Find my passport (I know its in the house, I just need to figure out where!

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And what a week it was!

• 
  DIY Christmas Gift Tags
  Today, I am sharing one of my favorite homemade gifts. These DIY Christmas gift tags are easy to make, personalized, and versatile. I love these as a hostess gift or as a package topper. They are so thoughtful but also so…
• 
  13 Ways to Set Your Table for Christmas Dinner
  Today, I am sharing 13 ways to set your table for Christmas dinner. I hope these ideas inspire you to have fun setting your table! Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are right around the corner. (How could that be?) If you…
• 
  ‘Tis the Season of Giving Christmas Gifts Under $25
  The holidays are the season of giving. With so many amazing gifts under $25, you might find something for everyone on your list! The good news is the season of giving does not have to break the bank. There are so…
• 
  Christmas Eve Dining Ideas
  As you plan your Christmas menus, I wanted to share many delicious Christmas Eve recipes. These are easy to make and delicious! It’s always nice to have something new to add to the holiday menu. These recipes are keepers that may…
• 
  10 Things You Shouldn’t Do When Hosting Christmas
  The holiday season is magical, but let’s face it—it can also be stressful, especially if you’re hosting Christmas. Between planning meals, decorating your home, and ensuring everyone has a wonderful time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, you can reduce stress,…
• 
  Christmas Joy with Handmade Decor
  Today, I am sharing lots of Christmas joy I created in our family room a while back, along with many wonderful items I made from pinecones. Yep, pinecones! I love handmade decor; these projects have brought me so much Christmas joy….

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I have lots to share this week for fall including my obsession with cranberry glass (and where to find it!). I have lots of room decor idea, including our new fall looks in the dining room and family room. And my favorite donut recipe!

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• The Best Summer – S4/V32
• Sisters at the Beach – S4/V31
• Ready for Fall Decor – S4/V30
• Traveling with Girlfriends – S4/V29
• Summer Dinner on the Beach – S4/V28
• Amazon Prime Early Deals – S4/V27
• Family Time – S4/V26
• Prepping My Craft Room – S4/V25
• Summer Decor Ideas – S4/V24
• A Trip to France – S4/V24
• A Surprise Birthday Celebration – S4/V23
• A Big Birthday Week – S4/V22
• Summer is Here – S4/V21
• Family Week – S4/V20
• Lessons From My Mom – S4/V19
• The Willamette Valley Wineries – S4/V18
• A Week in Ventura Beach – S4/V17
• A Birthday Celebration – S4/V16
• Enjoying Spring – S4/V15
• Family Gatherings – S4/V14
• Ventura Beach – S4/V13
• Embracing Spring – S4/V12
• Vintage Shopping – S4/V11
• My Texas Trip – S4/V10
• Why I Love Gardening – S4/V9
• A Beach House Tour One Year Later – S4/V8
• Why I Gave Up Desserts 8 Years Ago – S4/V7
• Valentine’s Day Dinner at Home – S4/V6
• Home Projects – S4/V5
• Why I Love Serena and Lily – S4/V4
• Why I Love January – S4/V3
• Valentine’s Day Plans – S4/V2
• The New Year – S4/V1

You Might Also Need…

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This Week’s Top Sellers

We shared a lot of our favorite home items this week and here are the top sellers!

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